In this state of dangerous relaxation, exposed to the poisonous infusions of the enemy, and having no common danger to attract our attention, we were extinguishing, by stages, the ardor we began with, and surrendering by piece-meal the virtue that defended us.
Paine warns in "The American Crisis" about the dangers of complacency, which can erode national ardor and virtue.
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In fine, society performs for itself almost everything which is ascribed to government.
To account for this sudden transition, it is proper to observe that there are two distinct species of popularity; the one excited by merit, and the other by resentment.
It has nothing to dread from attacks; truth has given it an establishment, and time will record it with a name as lasting as his own.
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